Two attacks on Western Cape police

Cape Town police have come under attack for a second time in just under two weeks.

“Sector commanders in Philippi East were conducting routine patrols down Nobiva Street in Lower Crossroads [on Tuesday morning] when they noticed three suspicious looking males standing at the corner,” said Western Cape police spokesman Captain FC van Wyk.

“As the patrol vehicle approached them, one of the suspects produced a firearm and fired several gunshots at the approaching police vehicle.”

The officers returned fire and the men fled the scene, dropping a firearm – a 9mm pistol with one blank round, Van Wyk said.

The officers gave chase, but the men got away. They are still at large.

“Philippi East police are investigating a case of attempted murder. The motive for the attack is unknown,” Van Wyk said.

On 1 May, Kensington police stopped an alleged gang member walking with an exposed firearm in Matroos Plein.

“The well-known suspect was apprehended and the firearm confiscated.

“The suspect started calling out for help and approximately 30 unknown members of the community came out of their homes and threatened to shoot the police members if the suspect is not released,” said Van Wyk.

They threw stones at the officers and their vehicles, which allowed the suspect to escape.

The firearm was positively linked to a case in Kimberley.

Anyone with information on either incident is asked to contact Crime Stop on 086-0010-111. –